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A hydrosalpinx is a condition in which one or both fallopian tubes are blocked and filled with a clear fluid. To detect whether a patient has hydrosalpinx, a specialist may perform an ultrasound, HSG (Hystersalpingogram), or a laparoscopic surgery. At CNY Fertility Center, most hydrosalpinx are discovered through an HSG, during which a special dye is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes, and then viewed through a fluoroscope (similar to an x-ray machine). If the fluid spills out of the fallopian tubes, they are not blocked. If the fluid remains, then the patient has a hydrosalpinx. Hydrosalpinx can be the result of endometriosis, previous pelvic infections, or can be due to a developmental abnormality. Some patients have recurrent abdominal pain, whereas others experience no symptoms at all. If both fallopian tubes have hydrosalpinx, then the sperm cannot reach the egg in the fallopian tube, and conception is thus prevented.

The best option for women with two hydrosalpinx is IVF (invitro fertilization), because fallopian tubes are not necessary for the process. Some studies indicate that the fluid in a hydrosalpinx decreases conception by about 50%, and increases miscarriage, when undergoing IVF. Therefore, your specialist may recommend that your tubes (with hydrosalpinx) be removed through laparoscopic surgery done in the office to enhance your success. Women who have one hydrosalpinx and one open tube can also benefit from removing the hydrosalpinx, and will increase their chances of conceiving on their own.